LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. 
 
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 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 
 
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 PROFESSOR E. J. DONECKEN'S 
 SYSTEM • 
 
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 AND 
 
 Illustrated 
 
 Treatise 
 
 ON THE 
 
 EQUINE FA.M:ILY. 
 
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 VVILLIAMSPORT, PA.: 
 
 BANNBR STEAM POWER BOOK PRINTING HOUSE. 
 
 1879. ^^ 
 
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PROFESSOR K J, DONECKEN'S 
 
 t/ 
 
 SYSTEM 
 
 AND 
 
 Illustrated 
 Treatise 
 
 ON THE 
 
 MOST OBVIOUS AND COMPLICAT- 
 ED DISEASES AND BLEMISHES 
 TO WHICH THE EQUINE 
 FAMILY IS PECULIAR. 
 ]^l^ LY SUBJECT; 
 
 TOGETHER WITH 
 
 giving directions for a scientific 
 
 and rational course of 
 
 treatment. 
 
 li/^feiLl) 
 
 WILLIAMSPORT, PA.: 
 
 BANNER STEAM POWER BOOK PRINTING HOUSE. 
 1S79. 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 In presenting the information which this work 
 contains, I have endeavored to be as brief and 
 practical as possible. It is intended for the use 
 of the intelligent horse owner, and will act as a 
 guide in the hour of need. In the compilation of 
 this book I have examined a number of works 
 written by English and American authors, which 
 assisted me in selecting the best and safest agents. 
 I have also procured cuts from J. B. Lippincott 
 & Co., Philadelphia, Pa. 
 
 The reader will find this work to contain valu- 
 able and scientific information. The medicines 
 selected are among the latest and best. This will 
 enable the owner of the animal, when sick or 
 blemished, to give him a scientific and rational 
 course of treatment. And in order to have the 
 full benefit of the valuable information this work 
 contains, and to learn the use of the surgical 
 instruments which are necessary to bring in use 
 in a number of cases to perfect a cure, it would be 
 necessary for the student to attend my School of 
 Instruction, to learn the use of the knife, and to 
 make use of the medicine as it should be done. 
 Always recollect that the care and diet of the 
 patient is Ux^arly half of the cure, and some of the 
 important instructions cannot be given in writing; 
 they must be given personally by the instructor. 
 
 E. J. DONECKEN, Y. S. 
 
 Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1879, ^V ^- J- Donecken,'^ 
 in the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington, 
 
SYSTEM AND ILLUSTRATED TREATISE, 
 
 THE PULSE. 
 
 ■ -It-is-ft-matter of importance, before medicine is 
 administered, to ascertain an accurate knowledge 
 of tlie pulse, with its different grades. Without 
 this knowledge it is impossible to treat the horse 
 on general principles. It is a useful assistant to 
 the veterinary practitioner. The number of pulsa- 
 tions in any artery will give the number of the 
 beating of the heart, and so express the irritation 
 of that organ, and of the frame generally. If the 
 horse is in a healthy condition the heart beats 
 from thirtj^-five to thirty-eight times per minute. 
 In the thoroughbred horse the pulsation numbers 
 from forty-two to forty-six in a minute. 
 
 The most convenient place to examine the pulse 
 is at the inferior maxillary, a little behind the spot 
 where the sub-maxillary artery and vein and the 
 parotid duct comes from under the jaw. To deter- 
 mine the nature and character of the pulse, this 
 can be more full}^ ascertained by pressing the 
 pulse vein against the lower jaw ; when the pulse 
 reaches seventy, some degree of fever may be ap- 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 prehended, and proper precaution should be tak- 
 en. Eij^hty or ninety may be considered to be in 
 an unsafe condition. But few liorses will survive 
 when tlie pulse exceeds one hundred. The ener- 
 gies of nature are speedily worn out. When it 
 beomes necessary to examine the pulse, it should 
 be done in a quiet manner. By excitement the 
 pulsation will be increased. A quick pulse indi- 
 cates irritation and fever. A slow pulse w II indi- 
 cate diseases of*opposite character; it accompa- 
 nies slugo^ishness, such as colic, feircy, and nearly 
 all dropsical affections, and every disease connect- 
 ed with the deficiency' of the nervous sj'stem. If 
 it becomes necessary to bleed the horse, never 
 bleed b}' a certain measurement, but by having 
 the finger on the pulse vein, and thereby deter- 
 mine the quantity necessar^^ to be taken. 
 
 FEVER. 
 
 By observation there can be noticed four stages 
 of fever — weakness, loss of appetite, low^ spirits, 
 shivering fits, chills, restlessness; short and quick 
 movements can be noticed, nostrils generally dis- 
 tended ; legs and ears cold — sometimes one is hot 
 while the other is cold ; the coldness is often suc- 
 ceeded b}' great heat and thirst; costiveness; 
 urine scanty, and often highly colored ; mouth 
 hot and dry. When the hcrse is laboring under 
 an attack of fever the skin becomes more moist. 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 the bowels and kidneys act more natural, the pulse 
 becomes more full, the pulsation is not lessened, 
 and more moisture in the mouth can be noticed. 
 When there is disease of the lungs, liver, or other 
 organs of the body, or should the animal meet 
 with any accident of any severity, then it is 
 termed Symptomatic Fever. 
 
 In any fever or inflammation, when the pulsa- 
 tions are above fifty. Tine, of Aconite Root, 16 
 drops, can be administered every two to six hours 
 apart, to be continued not over three to four days 
 at a time. After the fever is reduced, or the pulse, 
 then the following can be given as an alterative: 
 
 Iodide of Potassium, 3 gr. 
 Golden {Seal, ^ ounce. 
 
 To be given as a dose as long as the case requires. 
 
 In case of a bilious attack administer Huxom's 
 Fluid Ex. of Cinchona, two tablespoonfuls ; add 
 six drops of Tine, of Nux Vomica, and give as a 
 dose. This is not to be given when the pulse is 
 high. And in case of catarrhal affection or dis- 
 temper, reduce the fever first by giving Aconite, 
 then follow with Tine, of Kux Vomica, 10 drops, 
 twice a day or oftener, if the case requires it. 
 
 Should the blood appear to be in an impover- 
 ished condition, give Sulphate of Soda, one table- 
 spoonful night and morning, for five days or 
 longer, if it is required. Also the Syrup of 
 Iodide of Iron, 3 drams, to be given as dose 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 ANATOMY. 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 night and morning, to be continued for a week 
 or more. During a high fever lOdrops of Nitric 
 Acid, in a bucket of water, can be given once 
 a day. . 
 
 In case of loss of appetite or indigestion, if 
 this should not be removed the animal will lose 
 flesh and will become weak, and will have an un- 
 healthy appearance. This affection is often brought 
 on by irregular feeding, and by giving too much at 
 one time and not enough at another. The follow- 
 ing preparation is the best I know of : 
 
 Nitro-muraticum Acid, 4 dr. 
 
 Tine, of Nux Vomica, 8 dr. 
 
 Pepsin, 4 dr. 
 
 Ex. of Taraxicum, 4 dr. 
 
 Symple S\a-up and Aqua Pura, 8 oz. 
 
 Compound all well, then give as a dose one table- 
 spoonful after each meal, for a week or longer. To 
 be given in 2 oz. of water. 
 
 PNEUMONIA. 
 
 Diagnosis: — Inflammation of the lungs is some- 
 times sudden in its attack, but is generally pre- 
 ceded by indications of fever. The animal is 
 attacked in the incipient stage with a chill ; he 
 will hang his head down, have a stupid appear- 
 ance, and a lack of brightness in his eves ; the 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 respiration is much embarrassed, and often labori- 
 ous ; the pulse is strong and wiry ; the membrane 
 of the nose is of an intensely florid red, more 
 vivid in the inside corners of the nostrils ; his 
 legs standing far apart, extremel3^ cold ; he refuses 
 his feed ; a slight cough ; and the horse will not 
 lie down. It is known of horses to fall off their 
 feet dead while standing. 
 
 Treatment : 
 
 Tine, of Veratrum Yiride, 1 dram. 
 
 Tine, of Aconite, 1 dram. 
 
 Fluid Ex. Gelseminin, 2 drams, mix. 
 
 Then give as a dose 16 drops of tlie mixture. 
 This dose is to be given when the pulsations are 
 from sixty to sixt3^-five, and to evei-y ten pulsa- 
 tions of an increase above sixty, add three more 
 drops. Give the medicine in 1 oz. of Aqua Pura. 
 This can be repeated at the expiration of two 
 hours, and be continued until the pulse is con- 
 trolled. Great care should be taken to nurse tlie 
 patient well. He sliould be kept free from all 
 annoyance. The diet should consist of warm 
 bran mashed, and a little shorts to be mixed ; then 
 give to him as a dose — 
 
 Fluid Fx. Cinchona, 2 drams. 
 Tine, of Nux Vomica, 6 drops. 
 
 At the same time keep the stable clean. Place 
 the animal so he can inhale the pure air. Blister 
 the patient at the front bgs, or under the abdo- 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 men. After the fever is reduced the horse will 
 show more general debility and weakness ; then 
 give the patient the following alterative: 
 
 Syrup of Iodide of Iron, 1^ drams. 
 Fluid Ex. of Cinchona, 2 dr., mix. 
 
 Give the above as a dose nio-ht and morning. 
 Continue till a change is experienced. As soon as 
 the patient becomes able, give him daily gentle 
 exercise. A change of diet, sliced carrots, oil 
 cake, oats and straw. 
 
 INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH. 
 
 Diagnosis of inflammation of the stomacli and 
 bowels. — This is of frequent occurrence among 
 horses of this countr}^ The horse is often at- 
 tacked suddenly, and without a rational mode of 
 treatment is in danger of d^ing. The animal will 
 roll and tumble in order to obtain relief. He 
 often throws his head around towards his flank. 
 He will turn his lip up. There can be noticed 
 reddish pimples in the roof of his mouth. Tiie 
 tongue is hot and coated ; his eyes are inflamed ; 
 his ears stand forward ; has a quick, light pulse. 
 Procure the following: 
 
 Tine, of Opii, J oz. 
 Tine, of Aconite, 18 drops. 
 Sweet Spii-its of Nitre, 1 oz. 
 Aqua distilled, 2 oz. 
 
10 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 Repeat tins dose every hour until the horse is 
 relieved. After the animal is over it, it would be 
 a safe plan to give the patient a few bran mashes, 
 and to add j oz. Powd. Golden Seal, oats, straw, 
 and linseed meal. 
 
 SPASMODIC COLIC. 
 
 Symptoms. — The external s^^mptom.s are nearly 
 the same as in flatulent colic or inflammation of 
 the stomach, in getting up and down. The pa- 
 tient will often lay still when down, and draw his 
 legs up against the abdomen. These are true 
 symptoms that pain comes periodically. 
 
 Administer the following compound : 
 
 Tine, of Nux Vomica, 8 drops. 
 Fluid Ex. of Valerian, 1 oz. 
 
 Give this as a dose, and continue till a change 
 is experienced. The dose can be repeated every 
 hour or two, according to the nature of the case. 
 The pulse is often low, except accompanied by an 
 irritation of the urinary organs. 
 
 FLATULENT COLIC. 
 
 Symptoms. — In the incipient stage, before the 
 abdomen is distended. The pulse is irregular, 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 11 
 
 often an intermission of tlie beating of the heart, 
 and generally becomes depressed, and often in a 
 short time the abdomen will become largely dis- 
 tended by the fermentation, and the accumulation 
 and generation of gas within the stomach. 
 
 Treatment. — The principal object to be accom- 
 plished is, first, to give tone to the stomach and 
 arouse the digestive functions, and to accomplish 
 this you will give the following preparation : 
 
 Bi-Carbonate of Soda, \ oz. 
 
 Fluid Ext. of Ginger, 1 dram. Mix. 
 
 Give the above as a dose. If not relieved in a 
 half an hour, repeat the dose; or give Spirits of 
 Ammonia, ^ oz., in one pint of lukewarm water. 
 
 Where the abdomen becomes largely distended 
 by the generation of gas within the stomach, it 
 becomes necessary to open the abdomen with the 
 trocar ; this should be passed through the outer 
 skin and the peritoneum into the large intestines. 
 As soon as the gas has escaped, wash off the part 
 well with cold water, and apply a bandage with 
 lint on the wound. Keep cold water on the parts. 
 
 SUPPRESSION OF THE URINE. 
 
 Symptoms. — Sometimes the animal will show 
 symptoms of pain by rolling and tumbling, and a 
 perspiration will be noticed in the flanks of the 
 
12 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 patient. In some cases the pulse is Iiigb, and in 
 others it is not much disturbed. 
 
 Suppression of the urine is often the result of 
 spasm of the urethra, and usually disappears soon 
 after the application of the following: 
 
 Sweet Spirits of Nitre, H oz. 
 Powd. Gum Assafcptida, 2 dr. 
 Syrup, 2 oz. 
 Tinct. of Aconite, 6 drops. 
 
 Mix, and drench the patient with the same. 
 The dose may be repeated at the expiration of 
 one hour, if necessar3^ 
 
 DUMMIES. 
 
 General Symptoms. — Loss of appetite; appear- 
 ance dull, and stupid, and sleeps', and will hang 
 the head down; often stop while eating; the^^ are 
 unable to back; stand awkward, and are often in 
 an impoverished condition. In driving them, they 
 generally work to one side of the road. 
 
 Treatment. — In this disease the patient g;ener- 
 ally becomes costive. Give him Roshell Salt, 2 
 drams, as a dose; re[)eat night and morning until 
 the bowels respond to the medicine. It will be 
 necessary to use the float on the grinders. Then 
 give night and morning, for a few days, Tinct. of 
 Balladonna, 12 drops, in some water. Then follow 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 13 
 
 with the Tine, of Xux YomicH, 10 diops, as a flo«e. 
 This can he given night and morning, and con- 
 tinued from four to six weeks, or as long as the 
 ease requires it. To be given in 1 oz. of Aqua 
 Pur a. 
 
 DISEASE OF THE EYE. 
 
 Treatment. — The treatment consists of bathing 
 the forehead and the region of the eyes very fre- 
 quently with cold water. Keep the patient in a 
 dark corner of tiie stable; feed him on sloppy 
 mashes. Give him 4 dr. Nitrate Potash as a dose, 
 night and morning, for a few days. Should the 
 animal manifest much pain, take 1 oz, of Lauda- 
 num, 1 dr. of Gl^'cerine, and 3 oz. Rain Water; 
 manage to introduce a portion of the same two or 
 three times a day within the e3^elids ; then dis- 
 solve a half pound of Glauber Salts in tw^o quarts 
 of water; when dissolved, stir in about two quarts 
 of bran ; set the same before the animal, and he 
 will eat it. Should this fail at the expiration of 
 
14 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 twelve hours to relax the bowels, repeat the close. 
 This plan iisiially succeeds in restorins; the healthy 
 condition of the parts of the eye. 
 
 In extreme cases it often becomes Dvcar^ cy to 
 put setons below the eye; they ought lo be rnu 
 downwards; put on the tape venus turp.ntnit'; 
 then apply externally in and around tlir ifoion of 
 the e3'eball : 
 
 Borate of Soda, ^- (}v. 
 Camphor Water. ?> oz. 
 
 Slmke and r.pjjly. 
 
 The following formul:r is also uood for the eye 
 of the horse : 
 
 Ext. of BalladouM, ! dr. 
 Tine, of Opii, 1^- oz. 
 Dist. Water, 1 pint; mix. 
 
 Apph^ over the region of tije eye. Manage to 
 get a portion of the mediciui' in tlie eye. 
 
 FOR GENERAL DEBILITY. 
 
 The horse should be fed regular; clean and 
 healthy diet has much to do with the health of 
 the animal. A clean i^tnble. so that he can inhale 
 pure air, and the currycomb and brush applied 
 ever}^ morning, are good agents to prevent dis- 
 eases. But with all this, the animal will some- 
 times get in an impoverished condition ; a loss of 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 15 
 
 appetite, and not tlirive ; itchiness of skin and 
 tail; dull and stupid appearance; exhibits genei'al 
 debility in working. 
 
 For the above indications procure the follovving: 
 
 Dried Pow. Sulphate of Iron, 5 oz. 
 
 Povv. Genitian, 5 uz. 
 
 Pow. Hydrastis Canedenses, 5 oz. 
 
 Compound all carefully ; give as a dose one 
 tablespoonful night an<l morning. This should 
 be given in bran mashes and shorts, and occasion- 
 ally a dose of linseed meal and carrots has a fine 
 effect on the animal. 
 
 In case of a discharge of the nostrils, or an 
 attack of epizootic, administer the following: 
 
 Sulphate of Soda, one tablespoonful night and 
 morning for a week or longer. 
 
 THICK WIND. 
 
 Symptoma. — This disease can easily be distin- 
 guished from wind-broken in horses. The inspi- 
 ration and expiration are the same, whereas in 
 wind-broken there are two attempts to expel the 
 air from the lungs. T know of no cure for wind- 
 broken horses, but for thick wind the followins: 
 compound is administered: 
 
 Iodide of Potash, 4 oz. 
 Fluid Ext. of Stillingia, 1 lb. 
 Syrup of Tar, 2 oz. 
 
16 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 Dose, 2 oz. dail}', in the form of drench. The 
 region of the throat should be rubbed daily with 
 a portion of the following: 
 
 Cod Liver Oil, 4 oz. 
 Tine, of Capsicum, 2 oz. 
 Mix well and then apply. 
 
 During the treatment of the patient it is impor- 
 tant to keep the animal free from dust. A change 
 of feed is good. 
 
 HEAVES IN HORSES. 
 
 Disease of this character differs somewhat from 
 thick wind or wund-broken in horses. In the lat- 
 ter there is hardly any heaving of the flanks no- 
 ticed, while in heaves there is a violent action of 
 both flanks, being caused by an affection of the 
 diaphragm and the intercostal and other muscles. 
 The inspiratioD and expi)-ation are the same, wdiile 
 in wind-broken the expiration is accomplished by 
 two motions. There is noticed a shoit, dry, hack- 
 ing cough, and phlegm is thrown up. During the 
 time the animal undergoes treatment he should be 
 fed Oil damp food. Then ap[)ly tlie following ex- 
 ternally around the afiected parts : 
 
 Cod Liver Oil, 6 oz. 
 
 Aqnamonia, 1 oz. 
 
 Tine, of Canthrides, 2 drams. 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 17 
 
 Mix, and apply once a day; then administer the 
 following compound : 
 
 Fluid Ext. of Rosin Weed, 4 oz. 
 
 Fluid Ext. Hoarhound, 3 oz. 
 
 Syrup of Tar, 2 oz. 
 
 Dried Pow. Sulphate of Iron, 3 oz. 
 
 Fluid Ext. of Cubebs, 2 oz. 
 
 Linseed Oil, 3 oz. 
 
 Fluid Ext. Licorice Root, 4 oz. 
 
 Compound all the ingredients well together ; 
 then give as a dose 2 oz. night and morning, in 
 feed or a pill. Give the patient oil cake once a 
 day. 
 
 Change of diet should now be given, such as 
 carrots, potatoes, oats, straw. No dustj^ feed 
 should be allowed to the horse. 
 
 WORMS IN HORSES. 
 
 This can be recognized by the unthrifty condi- 
 tion the horse will be in. He will eat, but will not 
 thrive ; the hide appears fast ; there can be no- 
 ticed a slimy discharge around the anus ; he will 
 appear dull and sleepy. 
 
 Worms often will 3neld by simply giving the 
 horse Powdered Mustard or Oil of Turpentine. 
 In some cases this kind of medicine will make no 
 impression ; then procure the following: 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 Savin, 1^ dr. 
 Oil of wormwood, 20 dr. 
 Assafoetida, 2 dr. 
 Calomel, 1 dr. 
 
 Use Palm Oil and make a pill ; give this as a 
 dose; then in the morning procure the following 
 medicine : 
 
 Barbadoes Aloes, 15 oz. 
 Zingibar, 1 oz. 
 
 Mix, and beat up with 8 oz. of Palm Oil ; give as 
 a dose 1^ oz. Continue to give this until the 
 bowels respond to the medicine. 
 
 CHRONIC STIFFNESS AND LAMENESS 
 OF THE SHOULDER AND HIP. 
 
 There are obvious causes which go to pro- 
 duce diseases of this character. Stables kept too 
 warm, and not enough pure air in them ; warming 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 19 
 
 the animal by driving, and then leaving him stand 
 without a blanket until he chills. It is sometimes 
 brought on by a heavy strain, and cold rains. 
 Diseases of this character being confined to one 
 or both shoulders, is often followed by similar 
 wasting of the spinatus muscles, and is often 
 termed sween}'. The same conditions, however, 
 may be the consequence of diseased feet, for we 
 have often observed an atrophy or wasting of the 
 above muscles in animals that have long been the 
 subjects of chronic liminitis and altered strictures 
 about the feet. The stiffness and lameness, if 
 there be any, attending rheumatism disappears to 
 a certain extent after a brisk trot ; whereas acute 
 rheumatic pains are generally aggravated by ex- 
 ercise. 
 
 Treatment for chronic affection of the shoulders 
 and hip : 
 
 In preparing a horse for an operation, first wash 
 off the shoulders and legs down to the hoof with 
 warm water and castile soap ; rub the shoulders 
 and limbs until the}'^ become dry ; then, for acute 
 rheumatism, use a trocar; pass the instrument 
 through the outer skin and membrane ; then put 
 in through the tube of the trocar Fluid Extract 
 of Black Cohosh, one teaspoonful, or as much as 
 the case may require. 
 
 For chronic stiffness use Hydrastis Can. Fluid 
 Ext., J dram ; put this through the tube of the 
 trocar. 
 
20 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 For sweeny alone, Tine, of Myrrb, ^ dr. ; Aqua 
 Pura, 1 oz. ; mix, and put through one teaspoon- 
 ful, or a larger quantity if the case requires it. 
 
 For chronic stiffness apply externally, once 
 every third da}^, a portion of the following com- 
 pound : 
 
 Fulv. Hydrargyria Chloridum, 1 oz. 
 
 Gum Camphor, 1^- oz. 
 
 Oil of Spike, ^ oz. 
 
 Spirits of Turpentine, 1 pint. 
 
 Compound all well, and shake well before ap- 
 plying. 
 
 For acute rheumatism use the following : 
 Spirits of Camphor, 4 oz. 
 Castile Soap, 2 drams. 
 Tincr. of Arnica, 1 oz. 
 Aquamonia, 1 oz. 
 Chloroform, 1 oz. 
 
 Mix all well. The shoulders and limbs should 
 be washed every morning ; rub well, and every 
 third morning a portion of medicine is applied to 
 the parts affected. 
 
 Should it appear that the hoof is affected, make 
 a box, fill it with warm water, then let the animal 
 stand in it each day for three hours, and apply the 
 hoof medicine. The size of the box should be 
 two feet and a half in length, sixteen inches in 
 width, and nine inches high. After the hoof is 
 well soak out, and then use the hoof compound. 
 
HOOF AND ITS DISEASES. 
 
 The outer wall of the hoof, when health}^, will 
 have a smooth, level surface. Protuberances or 
 rino's around the crust indicate that the horse has 
 liad fever in the feet, and to such a degree as to 
 produce an unequal growth of the horn, and often 
 leaves some injurious consequence in the internal 
 part of the hoof. Should there appear sinking or 
 depression in the front of the hoof, it indicates a 
 disease of the cartileges, and the coffin joint will 
 sink, and the result will be a flat or pumiced sole. 
 If the hollow appears at the quarters, it is the 
 worst kind of contraction. 
 
 In preparing the hoof for the shoe, it is of the 
 utmost importance to preserve the natural pitch 
 from the pastern joint down to the bottom. Hard- 
 ly two horses can be found with the same pitch. 
 The frog should never be touched with the knife. 
 If the hoof is healthy the bars should be preserved 
 
22 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 in order to have a Iiealthy hoof. Hot shoes should 
 never be applied to the hoof. The shoe should be 
 fitted to the hoof, and not the hoof to the shoe. 
 The nails should be driven well to the outside, so 
 as not to come in contact with the sensitive part 
 of the inner hoof. 
 
 Should there be any corns noticed in the cor- 
 ners of the heel, in the bottom, they must be care- 
 fully removed with the knife, and a few drops of 
 Chromic Acid, diluted, dropped in the parts affec- 
 ted, and the cavity filled with rubber. 
 
 Should the hoof be diseased, let the patient stand 
 in a box of warm water three hours each day. Af- 
 ter the hoof is well, sponge out; then apply in 
 and around the hoof the following: 
 
 Cosmoline, 1 lb. 
 Barbadoes Tar, 4 oz. 
 
 Mix well, and apply once a day. 
 
 RING BONE AND SPAVIN CURBS. 
 
 Affections of this character are produced by a 
 strain-bruise, and often occur before the animal is 
 worked. The pastern and the lower joints contain 
 sinovial fluid. The leakaoe of the sinovial fluid 
 forms an ossious matter, and if not properly treat- 
 ed becomes ossified ; then it is termed a ring bone 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 23 
 
 or spavin, which signifies a callous or bony en- 
 largement. 
 
 Treatment.-- \\\ the treatment of ring bone or 
 spavin curbs, the same rule must be observed, 
 that the animal should have absolute rest, and all 
 inflammation must be removed. Then the parts 
 affected should be well bathed with castile soap 
 and warm water. Then apply Muriate Tinct. of 
 Iron ; or apply once a day — 
 
 Tine, of Aconite Root, 2 oz. 
 Pure Olive Oil, i\ oz. 
 Creosote, 1 oz. 
 Tine, of Arnica, 2 oz. 
 Mix all well, and apply once a day. 
 
 After the lameness is stopped, and the inflam- 
 mation is carefully removed, should there be an 
 ossified enlargement left, then procure — 
 
 Cosmoline, 4^ oz. 
 Biniodide of Mercury, i oz. 
 Charcoal, ^ dram. 
 Cantharides, \ oz. 
 
 Compound the ingredients well together; wash 
 off" the parts where the medicine is to be applied 
 each time with imported castile soap and warm 
 water, after they become dry. Then rub in thor- 
 oughly in the parts aff'ected a portion of the above 
 compound. Do not leave the animal reach the 
 parts where the medicine is applied for seven hours. 
 Let the medicine act for two days. Then wash off 
 
24 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 the parts atfected with lukewarm water and castile 
 soap. After the parts become dry, rub in Cosmo- 
 line each morning for four morninos. If the 
 parts are not too so)e or scal}^, apply the medi- 
 cine again. 
 
 Lard can be employed, to be mixed with the 
 mercury, to form the salve. Lard can also be 
 used to stop the action of the medicine. 
 
 BLOOD SPAVIN, PUFFS. 
 
 Ailments of this kind are generally located at 
 the hind knee joint, and are often to be seen in 
 colts. This complicated joint contains a number 
 of sacs, in which are deposited the necessary 
 secretion of fluids to lubricate this complicated 
 joint. By a bruise or strain of this joint these 
 sacs appear to become relaxed or ruptured, and 
 the fluid is no longer confined and emploj'ed in its 
 natural state, but forms a large sac under the lin- 
 ing membrane of the outer skin, which is then 
 termed a puff. 
 
 To remove this fluid safeU^, and without injury 
 to the joint, it must be done with medicine, or an 
 instrument called an Aspirator. With this in- 
 strument the fluid can be removed without letting 
 air into the parts ; then throw in the parts a solu- 
 tion of Iodine, to absorb the sac, or a solution of 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 25 
 
 Monsel Solution of Iron can be thrown in the 
 sac, to act as an astringent. Then the joint is 
 prepared to apply a compression. Rubber com- 
 press is the best. Before the compression is ap- 
 plied, Monsel Solution of Iron is applied to the 
 parts once a day, to be continued as long as neces- 
 sary. 
 
 Should it become necessary to employ a more 
 powerful agent, apply the following: 
 
 Iodine Ointment, 4 oz. 
 Biniodide of Mercury, ^ dram. 
 
 Should this be too active, add Cosmoline. 
 
 This medicine can only be applied once every 
 four to six days, and every second day the parts 
 must be washed off and lard applied, so as to keep 
 the parts smooth and healthy, and to preserve the 
 hair. 
 
 INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS. 
 
 The kidneys are placed under the loins. They 
 are in a long, oval shape. The right kidney is 
 extended more forward, lying under the liver. 
 The left you find more backward, towards the 
 stomach and spleen. Nearl}^ the one-sixth of the 
 blood that passes through the system is carried 
 in arteries through the kidneys. 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 2T 
 
 Symptoms. — The horse has a straddling gait, 
 often attempting to make water. He has difficulty 
 in turning around short, or stepping over obsta- 
 cles that come in his wa3^; strains in attempting 
 to make water; the water is often highly colored, 
 and in extreme cases is tinged with blood. He 
 exhibits o-reat weakness in the hind extremities. 
 
 tj' 
 
 TrealmenL — Light diet, and that of a clean 
 and health3'^ character. Sloppy bran mashes and 
 a few shorts should constitute the diet. A mild 
 blister should be applied over the region of the 
 kidneys, or a warm cloth laid over them, to be 
 continued as long as necessary. Then administer 
 the following compound : 
 
 Oil of Juniper, 20 to 40 minims. 
 Tinct. of Digitalis, 30 to 50 minims. 
 
 This can be given as a dose night and morning, 
 or oftener if it is nccessar\^ Do not continue the 
 Digitalis too long. 
 
 Fluid Ext. of Buchu, 1^- oz., is also indicated as 
 a dose night and morning. A mild blister, com- 
 posed of — 
 
 Burgunda Pitch, 4 oz. 
 Arnica, 1 oz. 
 
 Muriate Tinct. of Iron, 1 oz. 
 Cantliarides, ^ dram. 
 
 (More if the case requires it,) may be applied over 
 
28 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 the region of the kidneys. If the application is 
 not too severe, leave it lay on for a week or more. 
 
 BUTTON FARCY. 
 
 The animal may appear healthy in the evening, 
 and in the morning he may be found terribly 
 swollen in one of his legs. It may be nearly 
 twice the size of the other, and an examination of 
 the pulse will show a high fever. This will often, 
 for the time being, disappear. If nothing is done 
 to alleviate the pain the animal will be attacked 
 again in the same way. Soon there will be no- 
 ticed making their appearance little tumors, called 
 buttons, at the inside of the hind legs, and if the 
 animal is left alone they will make their appear- 
 ance in the thigh, inside of the limb. 
 
 The foUowing treatment always proved success- 
 ful in my practice. The animal will generally be 
 found costive ; administer the following : 
 
 Fluid Kxt. of Podophillin, 1 oz. 
 Fluid Ext. of Leptandrum, 1 oz. 
 Tinct. of Aloes, 1 oz. 
 
 Mix and divide into three doses, to be given 
 twelve hours apart. Give one as a dose until the 
 bowels respond to the medicine; then follow with 
 Fowler's Solution of Arsenic, from one to three 
 grains as a dose ; add Tinct. of Cantharides, two 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 29 
 
 grains, night and morning ; to be continued as 
 the case requires it. Or Sulphite of Soda, one 
 tablespoonful niglit and moruing, is indicated. 
 
 The button or ulceration must be cauterized 
 with Caustic Potash. 
 
 COUGH IN HORSES. 
 
 This is brought on liy taking cold, and is some- 
 times the result of iinpi-oper treatment of distem- 
 per. Horses often can be noticed coughing for 
 years, and if left alone will terminate in thick 
 wind and heaves. Dust of any ciiaracter will 
 irritate disease of this character. Should the 
 above be caused by the irritation of the lining 
 membrane of the respiratory orifice, the following 
 can be given : 
 
 Tinct. of Balladona, 5 drops. 
 
 Cubebs, 3 gr. 
 
 Syrup of Squills, 1 to 3 oz. 
 
 Tinct. of Ipecacuanha, I oz. or more. 
 
 Compound and give as a dose, and continue as 
 long as the case requires it. Or the following can 
 be given : 
 
 Fluid Ext. of Indian Hemp, 1 oz. 
 
 Syrup of Balsam of Tulu, 2 oz. 
 
 Balsam Copaiba, 1 oz. 
 
 Compound and give as a dose one tablespoonful 
 twice a day. 
 
30 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 A change of food often becomes necessary, such 
 as carrots, potatoes, oats, straw, and occasionally 
 linseed meal. 
 
 FEIRCY— ABDOMINAL DROPSY. 
 
 Symptomx. — Dropsical swellings in the sheath 
 and limbs. The abdomen is enlarged. The appe- 
 tite is not good, and the animal is thirsty. The 
 external symptoms show unthriftiness and de- 
 bility. 
 
 Treatment. — The disease being of a prostrating 
 character, the patient's strength must be sus- 
 tained. Give 1 dram Pow. Genitian, and the same 
 quantit\' of Golden Seal, and 1 dram Pul. Dried 
 Sulphate of Iron, night and morning, in a few 
 oats or shorts, and rub the external swelling once 
 daily with Oil of Cedar. 
 
 FISTULA AND POLL EVIL. 
 
 Ailments of this character are the result of an 
 impoverished condition of the blood of the ani- 
 mal, and if in this condition the animal should 
 receive a blow on the top of the shoulders or neck, 
 near the head, inflammatory^ swelling will arise, 
 and will terminate in a running abscess, and form 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 tubes and pipes. It is then termed Fistula and 
 Poll Evil. 
 
 In the incipient stage of this disease it can be 
 treated and cured by giving Sulphite of Soda, one 
 tablespoonful in bran mashes, night and morning, 
 for a week, loathe the external parts with cold 
 water, and apply — 
 
 Olive Oil, 4 oz. 
 
 Spirits of Ammonia, 2 oz. 
 
 Mix and apph' once a day. 
 
 If it has once formed a running abscess, the 
 tubes or wound must be probed with an instru- 
 ment, and after it is known in which direction 
 they extend a seton needle must be passed trough 
 the tube or affected part. Use worsted tape to 
 put in the needle Or cut down with a knife and 
 remove the tubes and the formation of pus ; then 
 dress the wound, and apply on the tape Acetate 
 of Copper, 1 dram; Cosmoline, 1 oz. Mix and 
 apply once or twice a da}'. 
 
 The following is also good : Sulphate of Cop- 
 per, ^- oz.; Aqua Pura Dist., from ^ to 1 pint. 
 Apply night and morning. 
 
 Should there be any enlargement left, apply the 
 following compound : 
 
 Iodide of Lead, ^ oz. 
 Lard, 4 oz. 
 
 - " Mix- well and -apply to the enlargement. -*- ' " 
 
32 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 DISTEMPER AND INFLUENZA. 
 
 Disease of this character affects young horses 
 and colts. Older horses are also subject to it, but 
 not so frequently as the young. Affection of this 
 nature is more apt to make its appearance in 
 spring and autumn, should the blood be in an 
 impoverished condition ; and if in this condition 
 the animal be exposed on a cold and rainy day, or 
 driven till he becomes warm, and left without a 
 blanket, and no care taken of him, or fed and 
 watered when too hot, it will bring on Influenza 
 and Distemper. 
 
 Symptoms. — In the incipient stage the animal 
 may be taken with a shivering fit or chill. This 
 is soon succeeded by fever ; his limbs and ears 
 will become icy cold ; he is inclined to hang his 
 head down ; to approach him he will show symp- 
 toms of pain, being afraid to be touched, and 
 often there can be heard a rattling noise within 
 his throat, extending down towards the lungs. 
 If the animal is left alone, swellings under the 
 inferior maxillary will take place, pus will accu- 
 mulate, and it is often necessar3^ to open the tume- 
 faction, so that the pus can have a free discharge. 
 He also exhibits pain in turning around short, and 
 is unwillino; to be moved. 
 
 Treatment. — Should the patient have high fever, 
 administer It drops of Tinct. of Aconite Root as 
 a dose. This dose can be given every two to four 
 
 e^n>nB<ilPMM 
 
hours apart. As soon as the pulse is controlled, 
 give the patient Tinct. of Nux Vomica, 11 drops, 
 as a dose, night and morning. Should the appetite 
 not be good, give the patient tiie following prepa- 
 ration : 
 
 Nitro-muraticum Acid, 4 drams. 
 
 Tinct. of Nux Vomica, 8 dr. 
 
 Pepsin, 4 dr. 
 
 Ext. of Taraxicum, 4 dr. 
 
 Symple Syrui) and Aqua Pura, 8 oz. 
 
 Compound all well together; then give as a 
 dose one tablespoonful three or four times a day. 
 Then follow with — 
 
 Pow. Hydrastis Canedenses, 6 oz. 
 Dried Powdered Sulphate of Iron, 6 oz. 
 
 Mix ; then give as a dose one tablespoonful 
 night and morning, in bran mashes and shorts. 
 Place the patient in a good, comfortable stable, 
 and keep him free from all annoyances. This has 
 much to do towards making a speedy and perma- 
 nent cure. 
 
 NASAL GLEET. 
 
 This is the result of improper treatment of dis- 
 temper and the epizootic after it becomes chronic. 
 It is generally located on the mucous membrane 
 of the throat and nostrils. The discharge of the 
 nostrils will continue for years if not treated, and 
 
34 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 finally will become offensive. The external appear- 
 ance of tlie animal would indicate the patient to 
 enjoy good health. 
 
 This affection can he cured. Keep the bowels 
 open ; do not expose the patient to night air or 
 heavy winds. Then give the following: 
 
 Chloride of Potassium, 1 dr. 
 Powd. H3'drastis Can., I- oz. 
 
 Mix, and give as a dose night and morning for 
 a week, or as long as the case may require. Give 
 occasionally Sulphate of Quinine, 1 dr. Should 
 the animal become costive, give liim 1 oz. of Rhu- 
 barb. Use the following as an injection: 
 
 Brorao-Chloralum, 1 oz. 
 Soft Water, 1 pint. 
 
 Mix, and shake well before using. Throw a 
 
 portion of the solution up the nostrils, by means 
 
 of a syringe, twice a da}'. Continue until a 
 change is experienced. 
 
 TO PREVENT TORTURE BY FLIES 
 ' AND OTHER INSECTS. 
 
 Walnut Leaves, 3 oz. 
 Golden Seal Root, 3 oz. 
 Smart weed, ^ oz. 
 Boiling Water, -}s gal. 
 Macerate all well. After the strength is all 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 35 
 
 taken out, then filter through a cloth, and arid 
 3 oz. of Tinct. of Aloes and Carbolic Acid in solu- 
 tion ; then npply to the surface a portion of the 
 mixture. 
 
 GREASE AND SV\/'ELLED LEGS. 
 
 Diseases of this character are the result of an 
 impoverished condition of the blood, and are often 
 produced through neglect b}' the owner of the ani- 
 mal ; standing him in an unclean stable, and not 
 having sufficient pure air to inhale. The first to 
 be accomplished is to correct the morbid condi- 
 tion, and to secure this give the following: 
 
 Should the animal be costive, administer Ro- 
 shell Salt, two tablespoonfuls, as a dose night and 
 morning; continue till the bowels respond to the 
 medicine. Then give internalh' — 
 
 Iodide of Fotassa, 4 gr. 
 Pow. Genitian, ^ oz. 
 
 Give this as a dose night and morning, as long 
 as the case may require it. 
 
 Then appl}^ externally : Take one ball of Con- 
 centrated L3-e, and dissolve it in two gallons of 
 water; then take a teacu[) half full and put it in a 
 bucket half full of cold water, nnd wash the parts 
 well night and morning. 
 
 Should tlie skin appear uneven and rough, and 
 
36 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 hard to cure, apply externally the following ahout 
 the parts affected : 
 
 Cupri Nitras or Nitrate of Copper, 1 oz. 
 Aqua Pura, 1 pint. 
 
 To heal the parts, keep them clean and apply 
 the following once or twice a day : 
 
 Acetate of Copper, 1 dram. 
 Cosmoline, 1 oz. 
 
 For sores which contain no proud flesh Cosmo- 
 line can be employed. 
 
 LOCKJAW. 
 
 This disease is characterized by the rigidit}' of 
 various muscles of the body. The animal has not 
 lost entirely the power of swallowing; can drink 
 and eat a little, and take medicine. In this case 
 the horse is curable. In all cases it is supposed 
 to depend on irritation, directly or indirectly, of 
 the excito motor system of the true spinal cord. 
 If this be true, (and we iiave no reason to doubt 
 it,) then surgical operations in view of removing 
 the cause are not only useless, but injurious, for 
 the malady has migrated be3'ond the I'eaeh of the 
 surgeon's knife. 
 
 Treatment. — Administer Chloroform in 2-dram 
 doses until the jaws become unlocked. Also, 
 Tinct. of Aconite and the Tinct. of Balladonna 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. B% 
 
 can be employed with success. Externall}^ rub in 
 the parts — 
 
 Sulphuric Ether, 4 oz. 
 Olive Oil, 4 oz. 
 Aquamonia. ^ oz. 
 
 Rub this in the neck and back once a day as 
 long as the case may require it. 
 
 MEGRIMS. 
 
 Megrims in horses is supposed to be analogous 
 to epilepsy in man. Horses subject to this affec- 
 tion will appear dull and stupid when working, 
 and at a later period will be seized with a sudden 
 fit. and drop down while at work; on other occa- 
 sions they will run over or into an}' obstacle that 
 may happen to be in the road ; will be seized with 
 convulsions, and become insensible. 
 
 The following is the treatment the animal should 
 receive. If he does not exhibit too much weak- 
 ness, give him a copious bleeding and let him 
 inliale Aquamonia. Under this treatment he will 
 recover. 
 
 Should the patient be costive, give him a suffi- 
 cient quantity of Roshell Salt; then follow with 
 Ni crate of Potass. Pow.. 1 dram, every night, and 
 in the morning give Pul. Hydrastis Can., ^- 02., as 
 a dose, as long as the case may require it. 
 
38 
 
 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 PRURIGO. 
 
 Disease of this character is recognized b^ the 
 animal rubbing his neck and body. The origin of 
 nearh^ all skin diseases prevalent among horses is 
 due to neglect and uncleanliness, and if this should 
 be the cause of this malady, then it requires clean- 
 liness of tiie skin in order to reraov^e the cause ; 
 then administer the following medicine : 
 
 Stdi)hite of Soda, t oz.; give as a dose one ta- 
 blespoonful night and morning. Then apply lo- 
 call}^, b}'" means of a sponge, or rub it in with your 
 hands, two tablespoonfuls of Sal Soda, in two 
 quarts of water; or apply a weak solution of Car- 
 bolic Acid. Continue until the animal is well. 
 
 SURFEIT. 
 
 Surfeit somewhat resembles the nettle-rash of 
 tumors, varying in size, and suddenly appears in 
 various pai'ts of the body and limbs. They create 
 an intolerable itching sensation, and when punc- 
 
tured a watery fluid escapes. Surfeit is often the 
 result of derangement of the digestive organs. 
 
 The treatment consists in being careful in feed- 
 ing the animal. He sliould be fed on bran and 
 corn meal. Then administer the following com- 
 pound : 
 
 Fluid Ext. of Podophyllin, 1 dr. 
 Fluid Ext. of Taraxicum, 1 dr. 
 Fluid Ext. of Rhubarb, 1 dr. 
 
 Compound the ingredients all well together, and 
 give as a dose night and morning. Continue until 
 the bowels respond to the medicine. 
 
 TUMORS— WARTS. 
 
 Tumors may be recognized and defined as swel- 
 lings of different sizes, without any inflammation 
 existing where the tumor appears. They diflfer 
 from each other in their growth and development. 
 Closing of the sebaceous openings of the parts is 
 one of the primary causes; hence the elevations, 
 swelling and filling up in certain parts and i)or- I 
 tions of the skin, which contain the sebaceous or 
 suet-like matter. 
 
 The treatment consists of opening the tumor 
 with the knife and injecting Tincture of Iodine. 
 Then the wound must be treated the same as other 
 wounds. 
 
40 SYSTExM AND TREATISE. 
 
 CANCER TUMORS. 
 
 Tumors of this character have a raw and bhjody 
 appearance at times. In the treatment of affec- 
 tions of this kind it is important to get rid of the 
 blood poison, whieli is generally the primary cause 
 of this disease. Administer the following: 
 
 Sulphite of Soda, -^ oz. 
 Pow. Genitian, ^ oz. 
 
 Give this as a dose night and morning. 
 
 The local treatment consists in cutting off the 
 tumor and then applying Chromic Acid or Caus- 
 tic Potash. 
 
 THRUSH. 
 
 This affection is of frequent occurrence among 
 horses in our countrj-. It is not so easily man- 
 aged, from the peculiar tendency in the horse's 
 foot to grow and produce proud flesh, which is the 
 essential principle of the affection. Thrush in the 
 foot of a horse may be said to be a foot deprived 
 of a frog and sole, in place of which the fungus is 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 41 
 
 formed. The primary causes are produced by 
 bruises or injuries to the sensitive part of the sole. 
 
 In the treatment of affection of this character 
 the proud flesli or fungus must be removed with 
 the knife; then treat the parts with a solution of 
 Carbolic Acid. The following medicine is then 
 used to heal : 
 
 Pul. Verdigris, 1 dram. 
 Cosmoline, 1 oz. 
 
 Mix, and apply once a day until the parts are 
 well. During the operation tlie parts must be 
 kept clean. 
 
 BRONCHOCELE. 
 
 The cause of Bronchocele is yet obscure. It 
 consists of lumps at tlie neck, often involving the 
 gland of the neck. The tumors or enlargements 
 are located under the inferior maxillary in the 
 bend of the neck, from the mouth toward the 
 stomach. They often become very large, and will 
 have a tendency of affecting the wind of the ani- 
 mal, and if left alone will finally destroy him. 
 Dogs are subject to this disease. 
 
 Affection of this character is evidently produced 
 by a blood poison, and will disappear in a short 
 time b}' administering the following treatment: 
 
42 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 Sulphite of Soda, 2 drams, night and morning 
 for six days, or as long as the case raa^' require it. 
 Then wash off the place where disease is located 
 with castile soap and warm water, and apply ex- 
 ternally the following compound : 
 
 Red Iodide of Mercury, 2 drams. 
 Iodine Ointment, 4 oz. 
 
 Compound the two ingredients together, and 
 rub a portion of the medicine in the parts affected 
 once a day. Should the parts become sore, apply 
 Cosmoline for a few days. 
 
 DIARRHCEA— DYSENTERY. 
 
 Disease of this character is more frequent 
 among colts than horses that have come to ma- 
 turity. As this disease is generally known among 
 horsemen, it will not be necessary to describe it. 
 The following compound of medicine will prove 
 successful : 
 
 Opii Pul., H gi". 
 Tanic Acid, 6 gr. 
 Sub-Nitrate of Bismuth, 6 gr. 
 
 Compound all well, and give as a dose everj'' two 
 hours until relieved. 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 43 
 
 LINIMENT. 
 
 FOR STRAINS AROUND THE JOINTS. 
 
 Spirits of Camphor, 4 oz. 
 Castile Soap, 2 dr. 
 Tinct. of Arnica, 1 oz. 
 Chloroform, 1 oz. 
 Compound all well, and apply as often as the 
 case may require it. 
 
 For strains around joints. Muriate Tincture of 
 Iron, 6 oz. In all affections of this kind wash off 
 the parts diseased befcjre applying the medicines. 
 
 TO REMOVE ENLARGEMENTS. 
 
 First wash off the parts where the liniment is 
 to be applied. Then rub in a small portion of the 
 following compound : 
 
 Tinct. of Iodine, 1 cz. 
 Tinct. of Cantharide?, 2 oz. 
 Croton Oil, 1 dr. 
 
 Compound and apply to the parts aflfected. 
 The following da}^ ^ppl.y Olive Oil. 
 
 OBSTRETRICS. 
 
 At present, and in times gone by, some so-called 
 ox)erators and illiterate men resorted to barbar- 
 ous means to deliver the colt. The more intelli- 
 
44 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 gent will leave nature work its course, which gener- 
 ally proves the most successful. Before it is born 
 the colt lays with its four legs under the abdomen. 
 The front limbs are turned under extending back- 
 wards, while the hinder legs are extended forward, 
 and the head is turned around and lays in the 
 flanks. This is the natural position the colt occu- 
 pies when all is rii^ht. But 1 have found the colt, 
 while in the womb, in all kinds of positions, and 
 often so doubled up tliat it becomes necessar\^ to 
 turn it in proper sliape, to assist nature in present- 
 ing her offspring. I iiave found it necessary in 
 some cases, especially where there have been igno- 
 rant operators employed, to dissect the colt before 
 it could be born. In this operation it requires the 
 operator to be in possession of an embr3'otomy 
 knife. It is impossible to accomplish the work 
 safely with a straight knife. The implement men- 
 tioned is manufactured for this purpose only; and 
 in order to be successful with or without the knife, 
 the operator ought to be in possession of an em- 
 bryotomy^ hook, vvhich is certainly a useful instru- 
 ment in this particular operation, where there are 
 great pains. Chloroform can be given in ^ ounce 
 doses, to relax the muscles, in order to assist 
 nature. 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 45 
 
 FOUNDER. 
 
 Tlie primary causes that produce disease of this 
 character are driving the animal until he is warmed 
 up, and then letting him stand to cool off witliout 
 a blanket, or feeding when too liot. Should the 
 blood be in an inii)overished condition, the animal 
 will be attacked in the incipient stage with a chill, 
 and the result is an unequal arterial circulation of 
 the blood. The animal will become stiff, nearl^^ 
 unable to walk. The disease will locate in tlie hoofs 
 if they are diseased and tender; or if the lungs, 
 eyes, or kidneys are the weakest, it will settle 
 there. In nearly every case the animal will be 
 found constipated. To correct this give the fol- 
 lowing compound : 
 
 Podophyllin, Leptandrum, of each, l(> gr. 
 Ext. Nux Vomica, 11 gr. 
 Ext. Taraxicum, 4 gr. 
 
 Mix, and compound into 15 pills. Administer 
 3 as a dose, iiight and morning, until tiie bowels 
 respond to the medicine. Then give tiie following 
 compound as an alterative tonic: 
 
 Tinct. of Cinchona, 5 dr. 
 
 Tinct. of Ferri Chloride, or Muriate Tincture of 
 Iron, 1 dr. 
 
 Liquor Arsenica, or Fowler's Solution of Ar- 
 senic 1 dr. 
 
 Add Symple S3'rup, 2 oz. 
 
 Then administer as a dose from 30 to 40 minims 
 
three times a day. Tiiis is not to be coDiinned 
 Ions at a time. 
 
 ANTIDOTES 
 
 FOR THE FOLLOWING MEDICINES. 
 
 Chromic Acid, - - Bicai'bonate of Soda. 
 
 Caustic Potass., _ . _ . Vinegar. 
 
 Prepared Chalk.) t-. , ^^^ 
 
 oi ^ ,r., . 1 ' - - - - - E^of's millv. 
 Jilue V itriol, ) ^^ 
 
 Sulphate of Iron.) ^,, , ^ 
 
 T.. ., ,. ' - - - - - (Stimulate 
 
 Digitalis, ) 
 
 Calomel, Egg's milk. 
 
 Aqua Ammonia, Vinegar. 
 
 Fowler's Solution, Hydrated Peroxide of Iron. 
 
 ( Mustard, warm water, Salera- 
 Nux Vomica, - ■ ratus, Copperas ; both dis- 
 ( solved in water. 
 
 Tinct. of Aconite, Give Nux Vomica and stimu- 
 lants, and exercise the patient. 
 
 In nearly all mercurial poison the wdiites of eggs 
 and Chloride of Lime can be given. 
 For Balladonna, Opium is indicated. 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 47 
 
 TESTIMONIALS. 
 
 The exalted opinion the American people have 
 of Prof. E. J. DoNECKEN, for renderino- such valu- 
 able service and scientific information on the ail- 
 ments of the horse, is sliown by extracts from the 
 leading papers and autograph letters in his pos- 
 session, which speak of him as a man where he is 
 known, and of the curative knowledge he y^os- 
 sesses, in the most glowino; and commendable 
 terms. No traveling surgeon ever received such 
 commendation from the public as is accoi'ded Dr. 
 Donecken, and he justly deserves it. 
 
 The following testimonials are from the papers 
 and prominent men of our countrv. 
 
 EXTRACTS FROM THE PRESS. 
 
 \From the ''Orange County Press,'' A'. Y., Dec. 21, i8']8.\ 
 
 A Successful Veterinary Surgeon. — Dr. E. 
 J. Donecken, ^''eterinary Surgeon, who has been 
 spending a number of weeks in this locality, has 
 had extraordinary success in treating many chron- 
 ic cases of severe lameness in horses, some of 
 which had been nearly useless for more than three 
 
48 SYSTEM ANT) TREATISE. 
 
 years. One of the most severe cases was that of 
 a horse belonging to Mr. A. W. Mcl3ri'le, of West- 
 town. This horse had been lame for a number of 
 years, so that he traveled with great difficult}^, and 
 was rapidly becoming useless, being so stitf at 
 times as to barel3^ walk. The muscles of the shoul- 
 ders were very much wasted, and the feet badly 
 contracted. The case had been handled b}' vari- 
 ous parties without success, all agreeing in pro- 
 nouncing it a ''hard" case. The liorse was put 
 under Dr. Donecken's treatment about three 
 months ago. He is now perfectly cured, and 
 has been worked and driven on the road for the 
 past two weeks without showing a trace of lame- 
 ness. This is but a type of many similar cases 
 which the Doctor has treated in this county, some 
 of them being in town, and all with uniform suc- 
 cess. We believe the Doctor to be thoroughly 
 skilled in his profession, and cordially commend 
 liim to all who need the services of a veterinary 
 surgeon. 
 
 A gentleman living in Middletown, who wished 
 to verify what the Doctor said of his former expe- 
 rience, wrote several weeks since to Uriah Bitzer, 
 of Lancaster, Pa., the owner of the celebrated 
 " Judge Livingstone," the horse which the Doctor 
 so successfnlly treated, as mentioned heretofore in 
 the " Press," and received a reph' as follows : 
 
 Lancaster, Pa., Dec. 12, 18t7. 
 
 Mr. John W. Slaavson — Dear Sir: You will 
 please excuse me for not answering your letter 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 49 
 
 sooner, as I v.'as awa}'' frora liome. I know Dr. 
 Donecken well. He treated two horses for me, 
 and a great many others in the neighborhood, and 
 was snccessfnl in almost every case. 
 
 Respectfully, Uriah Bitzer. 
 
 [From ''American Volunteer^' Carlisle, Pa., Feb. 6, iSyg^ 
 
 Remarkable Cures. — Prof. E. J. Donecken, 
 Veterinary Surgeon, has oi)e rated upon and treat- 
 ed in tlie last seven Aveeks, in Cumberland county, 
 Pa., over one hundred horses, for the most obvi- 
 ous and complicated diseases and blemishes to 
 which the equine ftimil}^ is peculiarly subject. He 
 stands unrivalled as a surgeon. Prominent horse- 
 men from this and other States and counties will 
 bear testimony to his superior skill in overcoming 
 diseases and removing blemishes ; and some of 
 the leading horsemen and papers further East 
 speak of him, and of his treatment and cures, in 
 the most satisfactory manner. He has in his pos- 
 session several hundred autograph letters from 
 leading mei?, who speak in the highest terms of 
 his operations, treatment and cures. He is worthy 
 the attention of every intelligent horse owner. 
 
50 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 AUTOGRAPH LETTEKS. 
 
 Churhctown, Cumberland Co., Pa., 
 
 January 1, 1879. 
 
 We, the undersigned, do testify that we are per- 
 sonally acquainted with Professor K. J. Donecken. 
 He has operated on and treated a number of our 
 best iiorses in this country for internal diseases 
 and external blemishes, and has performed the 
 most remarkable and astonishing cures. He cured 
 here for Mr. M. Landis a horse in five days ; stop- 
 ped all lameness. The horse was treated by other 
 surgeons for lameness in the hind leg and hip for 
 one year, without success ; tbev left the horse so 
 lame that he was unable to leave the stable. The 
 Professor removed splint here in one night, and 
 left no scar, and removed ringbone with one opera- 
 tion, and removed the entire lump or callous. All 
 lameness was stopped, and no scar. He also treat- 
 ed dummies, which were so. bad as to make the 
 horses entirely useless, with the same success, and 
 many others he operated and treated with great 
 success. Having seen demonstrations of his abil- 
 ity and skill, w^e can recommend him and his oper- 
 ations as the best and most scientific we have ever 
 seen or heard of. He operated and treated horses 
 three vears aoo at York Snrino;s with the same 
 success, and the animals then treated are sound 
 now. 
 
 H. W. Landis, Daniel Planks, Y. S., 
 
 Sam'l a. Bessel, M. a. Landis, 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 51 
 
 J. J. HoERNER, John Fought, 
 
 S. H. Bowers, Thos. U. Chambers, 
 
 W. Beigler, Eev. 0. C. Bartles, 
 
 A. G. Strock, a. W. Plank, 
 
 Geo. a. Plank, G. A. Baker, 
 
 D. H. Westfall, V. S., J. H. Stouffer, 
 
 A. L. Miller, J. A. Breneman, 
 
 Michael Landis, 
 J. B. Floyd, Carlisle, Pa., Clerk of CumberlarKl 
 
 County Courts. 
 R. M. Graham, Carlisle, Pa., Prothonotary of 
 
 Cumberland Count}^ 
 W. H. Bretz, Liveryman, Carlisle, Pa. 
 
 Mifflinburg, Union Co , Pa., 
 
 ' October 10, 1878. 
 
 To all whom this may concern : — I am person- 
 ally acquainted with Dr. E. J. Donecken. He 
 operated on three oj my horses. One of them 
 was affected in the muscles of the shoulders and 
 flexor tendon, and in the hoof. He got so sore 
 and lame that he became useless to me. I secured 
 the profess ional services of Dr. E. J. Donecken, 
 and his operation made the horse perfectly sound ; 
 he feels now like a colt again. The other horse 
 he operated was dumb — a bad case. I could not 
 keep him tied, in or out of the stable. He would 
 throw his feed on the ground, and then tr}^ to eat ; 
 hang his head down ; could hardly back him out 
 
52 SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 of tlie stall, and lie would stand and walk awk- 
 ward. Sin(3e the operation and treatment be backs 
 out of the stall himself, holds his head right, and 
 walks and stands well. I pi'ononnce him welL 
 He does not l)reak loose any more. The third 
 horse, a valuable on*-, had large puffs at tlie hind 
 knee-joint, and the Doctor had the same success as 
 with the others. I know of other horses he treat- 
 ed here. He removed Ijone spavin and splint, 
 taking the entire callous away, and no scar or 
 lameness is left. He also treated a horse that was 
 nearly blind ; by times it could hardly see. The 
 animal's eyes arc now entirely clear, and the}' are 
 restored and made perfectly sound. We never 
 had a horse surgeon in this country- to operate on 
 suc!i complicated cases, and establish such remark- 
 able cures as Dr. E. J. Donecken accomplished. 
 We can say of a truth tliat he is the best that we 
 have knowledge of. 
 
 M. G. Reed, Chief Bui-gess, Mifflinburg, Pa. 
 
 B. F. Eeighard, Merchant, 
 
 Wm. R. Wagner, W. Reichards, M.D., 
 
 J. R. Gast, M.D., Oliver P. Mench. 
 
 Lancaster City, Pa., Nov. 28, ISIG. 
 
 This is to certify that I, Uriah Bitzer, owner 
 and breeder of fine thoroughbred horses, and own- 
 er of the Keystone Hotel of this c\t\\ am person- 
 ally acquainted with Prof. E. J. Donecken. I em- 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 53 
 
 ployed him six months ago on two of my best 
 race-horses, wliich were so used up on the Suffolk 
 Park race-(!onrse, Philadelphia, that they were 
 considered by all the best horse surgeons and 
 liorsemen incurable. One of my horses, known as 
 '•Judge Livingstone." made his mile in 2:24, and 
 got so used up in the front shoulders and hoof 
 that he was almost unable to move at any gait. 
 I had him doctored by surgeons from Philadel- 
 phia, Boston and New York, for nearly two years, 
 with no success. Finally 1 got the services of 
 Prof. E. J. Donecken. Five months ago he ope- 
 rated on him, and now he is perfectly well, and 
 able to stand the track. I think he has got the 
 finest operations in this country. He uses the 
 best and safest medicine. Such operations are 
 worth to any horseman several thousand dollars. 
 All those who may have fine-bred horses, and em- 
 ploy him at once, can then see the benefit the}?" 
 will derive from his superior skill in the treatment 
 of all kinds of curable diseases to which the horse 
 is peculiarly subject. I also found the Dr. a man of 
 ! his woid and a oentleman. Uriah Bitzer. 
 
 Columbia X Roads, Bradford Co., Pa., 
 
 June 2G, 1878. 
 This is to certify that I am personally acquaint- 
 ed with the bearer, E. J. Donecken, Yeterinar}' 
 Surgeon. He stopped at my house nearly three 
 months. T have seen a number of operations he 
 performed during the time he stayed with me. 
 He removed ring-bone and bone spavin, curbs and 
 blood spavin, without taking the hair off, removed 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 
 
 the entire lump, and stopper] all lameness. I 
 never saw this done before lie came here. He also 
 took off' large lumps under the jaws of the horse 
 here witli success. I know of several horses he 
 cured lice wliicli were affected in the shoulders 
 and liip, and lie cured a severe case of t^q^hus 
 fever. I saw a .Mr. Gibbons, from Orange count_y. 
 New York, where the Docto]- operated for over 
 one year. He said his operations were successful 
 in that county. I also saw a man from Wells- 
 burg, N. Y., where the Doctor cured a bad case of 
 bellows-heaves, and the horse is now perfectly 
 sound. 
 
 I found Dr. Donecken to be a man of his word, 
 and can be fully relied upon. Having seen exhi- 
 bitions of the skill and success of his nevy opera- 
 tions on the treatment and diseases of the horse, 
 I can therefore cheerfully recommend him to all 
 in need of a scientific and qualified veterinary sur- 
 geon. J. P. Strong, 
 Agent for the N. C. B. Co. at above-named place, 
 and Owner of the Hotel. 
 
 LATiMORE P. O., Adams Co., Pa., 
 Janua?'!/ 14, 1879. 
 I am personally acquainted with Professor E. J. 
 Donecken, Y. S. For over three years I rcjeived 
 instructions from him on the treatment of the 
 horse. I have followed his instructions and used 
 his compounds of medicine over three years, with 
 remarkable success. Having seen demonstrations 
 of his ability and skill in the treatment of the 
 horse, I pronounce him the best surgeon that I 
 have knowledge of. Adam Lerew, 
 
 Yeterinary Surgeon. 
 
SYSTEM AND TREATISE. 55 
 
 TABLE OF CONTENTS. 
 
 Page. 
 
 The Pulse 3 
 
 Fever 4 
 
 Illustration Anatomy. ) 6 
 
 Pneumonia 7 
 
 Inflammation of the Stomach 9 
 
 Spasmodic Colic 10 
 
 Flatulent Colic ... 10 
 
 Suppression of the Urine 11 
 
 Dummies 12 
 
 Disease of the Eye (Illustration.) 13 
 
 General Debility 14 
 
 Thick Wind 15 
 
 Heaves in Horses 16 
 
 Worms in Horses 17 
 
 Chronic Stiffness and Lameness of Shoulder and 
 
 Hip (Illustration.) 18 
 
 Hoof and its Diseases (Illustration.) 21 
 
 Ring Bone and Spavin Curbs 22 
 
 Blood Spavin — Puffs 24 
 
 Inflammation of the Kidneys 25 
 
 Illustration (Disease of the Kidneys.) 26 
 
 Button Farcy 28 
 
 Cough in Horses 29 
 
 Feircy — Abdominal Dropsy 30 
 
 Fistula and Poll Evil 30 
 
 Distemper and Influenza 32 
 
 Nasal Gleet 33 
 
 To Prevent Torture by Flies and Other Insects 34 
 
Grease and Swelled Legs 35 
 
 Lockjaw 36 
 
 Megrims 37 
 
 Prurigo (Illustration.) 38 
 
 Surfeit 38 
 
 Tumors — Warts 39 
 
 Cancer Tumors 40 
 
 Thrush (Illustration.) 40 
 
 Bronchocele 41 
 
 Diarrhoea — Dysentery 42 
 
 Liniment — For Strains and Joints 43 
 
 To Remove Enlargements 43 
 
 Obstretrics 43 
 
 Founder 45 
 
 Antidotes 46 
 
 Testimonials — Extracts from the Press. 47 
 
 Autograph Letters 50